Paralegal

About the role

The paralegal is part of a legal support team at our downtown Chicago headquarters, providing crucial support to about 23 of ELPC’s talented public interest attorneys.

Responsibilities

• Directing and overseeing activities of ELPC’s Legal Assistant
• Supervising active case deadlines
• Preparing and editing documents to be filed, including: proofreading, cite checking, Bluebooking, formatting, producing tables of contents and authorities, assembling exhibit lists, etc.
• Becoming familiar and ensuring compliance with local practice, scheduling and filing rules for various venues (state, federal, and administrative courts)
• Ensuring accurate, compliant and timely filing and service of paper and electronic filings in a variety of courts.
• Supporting attorneys in discovery, gaining admission to courts, registration renewals, and creating and managing e-filing accounts
• Factual, legal, and policy research
• Assisting support staff as needed, with general administrative work

Requirements

• 7 or more years experience in the essential functions detailed above, preferably in a fast-paced litigation environment
• Associate degree required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Paralegal certification strongly preferred
• Notary or willing to become a notary
• Excellent computer skills with high proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat
• Keen attention to detail coupled with strong organizational skills
• Ability to problem solve under pressure, handle multiple tasks and deadlines
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Familiarity with online legal filing platforms, rules of service, and Bluebook citations
• A personal interest in environmental protection or other public interest work

Qualifications

• Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required during peak times and events
• Occasional travel may be required

Benefits

Compensation: $72,000 - $78,000 annually (based on a 37.5 hour workweek, not including overtime) + attractive benefits including vacation, sick and personal days, free gym membership and 4-12% 403b employer contribution/match.